Combination electronic cigarette holder and charger

ABSTRACT

A device for holding and charging an electronic cigarette element includes a housing configured for coupling to a rear of a mobile computing device, the housing including a rechargeable battery, a first power port in the housing, the first power port conductively coupled to the rechargeable battery and configured for accepting external power for recharging the rechargeable battery, a first receptacle in the housing, wherein the first receptacle is configured to accept an electronic cigarette element, a charging terminal conductively coupled to the rechargeable battery, wherein when the electronic cigarette element contacts the charging terminal, the rechargeable battery recharges a battery of the electronic cigarette element, and, a second receptacle in the housing, wherein the second receptacle is configured to accept a cartridge for the electronic cigarette element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation in part of patent applicationSer. No. 16/810,816 filed Mar. 5, 2020 and entitled “CombinationElectronic Cigarette Holder and Charger”, which is a continuation inpart of patent application Ser. No. 16/553,117 filed Aug. 27, 2019 andentitled “Combination Mobile Phone Case and Electronic Cigarette”, nowU.S. Pat. No. 10,686,320, which is a continuation of patent applicationSer. No. 15/913,710 filed Mar. 6, 2018 and entitled “Combination MobilePhone Case and Electronic Cigarette”, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,396,575,which is a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No.15/640,179 filed Jun. 30, 2017 and entitled “Combination Mobile PhoneCase and Electronic Cigarette”, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,003,372, which is acontinuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 15/465,559 filedMar. 21, 2017 and entitled “Combination Mobile Phone Case and ElectronicCigarette”, which is a continuation in part of patent application Ser.No. 14/948,951 filed Nov. 23, 2015 and entitled “Combination MobilePhone Case and Electronic Cigarette”, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,602,646, whichis a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 14/604,303filed Jan. 23, 2015 and entitled “Combination Mobile Phone Case andElectronic Cigarette”, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,197,726, which claimspriority to provisional patent application No. 61/933,091 filed Jan. 29,2014 and entitled “E-Cigarette in a Cell Phone Case”. Application Ser.Nos. 16/810,816, 16/553,117, 15/913,710, 15/640,179, 15/465,559,14/948,951, 61/933,091 and 14/604,303 are hereby incorporated byreference in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

Not Applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The claimed embodiments relate to the fields of mobile computing devicesand electronic cigarettes, and more specifically to accessories formerging mobile computing devices with electronic cigarettes.

BACKGROUND

Millions of people worldwide own mobile computing devices and mobiletelephones for communication. As a result, a wide variety of accessoriesfor mobile computing devices and mobile phones have become popular,including mobile phone cases, computing device cases, charging cases,charging packs, attachable pockets, attachable wallets, etc.Additionally, in recent years, many people have begun to smokeelectronic cigarettes as a safer alternative to smoking tobaccocigarettes. Most electronic cigarettes include a battery-powered heatingelement that atomizes a liquid solution into a vapor that a user caninhale into his lungs. Typically, the liquid solution can include amixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, flavorings,preservatives, other fillers, and any combination thereof. Because ofthe decreased health dangers associated with smoking electroniccigarettes, this relatively new product has become very popular.

Many consumers who use mobile computing devices and mobile phones alsouse electronic cigarettes. One of the problems such people encounter isa lack of storage space necessary to hold both a mobile computing deviceor mobile phone and an electronic cigarette at the same time. Forexample, a person may not have enough room in their pockets to storeboth a mobile computing device or mobile phone and an electroniccigarette at the same time. Also, both a device/phone and an electroniccigarette require separate electrical cords, which can be cumbersome andcause clutter. Additionally, people with a tendency for losing items,may lose an electronic cigarette if it is not secured to another item.Furthermore, if a person uses a mobile computing device or mobile phoneand also smokes electronic cigarettes, that person currently has topurchase the device/phone and electronic cigarettes at different pointsin time. This can be time consuming and tedious.

As a result, there exists a need for improvements over the prior art andmore particularly for a more efficient way to use both electroniccigarettes and mobile computing devices or mobile phones.

SUMMARY

A device for holding and charging an electronic cigarette element isdisclosed. This Summary is provided to introduce a selection ofdisclosed concepts in a simplified form that are further described belowin the Detailed Description including the drawings provided. ThisSummary is not intended to identify key features or essential featuresof the claimed subject matter. Nor is this Summary intended to be usedto limit the claimed subject matter's scope.

In one embodiment, a device for holding and charging an electroniccigarette element is disclosed. The device comprises a housingconfigured for coupling to a rear of a mobile computing device, thehousing including a rechargeable battery, a first power port in thehousing, the first power port conductively coupled to the rechargeablebattery and configured for accepting external power for recharging therechargeable battery, a first receptacle in the housing, wherein thefirst receptacle is configured to accept an electronic cigaretteelement, a charging terminal located in the first receptacle such thatwhen the electronic cigarette element is inserted into the firstreceptacle, one end of the electronic cigarette element contacts thecharging terminal, and wherein the charging terminal is conductivelycoupled to the rechargeable battery, wherein when the electroniccigarette element contacts the charging terminal, the rechargeablebattery recharges a battery of the electronic cigarette element, and, asecond receptacle in the housing, wherein the second receptacle isconfigured to accept a cartridge for the electronic cigarette element.

Additional aspects of the disclosed embodiment will be set forth in partin the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from thedescription, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed embodiments.The aspects of the disclosed embodiments will be realized and attainedby means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out inthe appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoinggeneral description and the following detailed description are exemplaryand explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosedembodiments, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute partof this specification, illustrate embodiments of the claimed subjectmatter and together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the disclosed embodiments. The embodiments illustratedherein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that theclaimed subject matter is not limited to the precise arrangements andinstrumentalities shown, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the electronic cigarette elementcurrently removed, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the electronic cigarette elementcurrently inserted, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the device currently removed froma mobile phone, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a front view of the device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the device currently attached to amobile phone, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the device currently removed froma mobile phone, according to an alternative embodiment;

FIG. 4B is a front view of the device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, showing the device currently attached to amobile phone, according to an alternative embodiment;

FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating components of the device forholding and charging an electronic cigarette element, according to anexample embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a block diagram illustrating components of an electroniccigarette element, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a computing device, according to an exampleembodiment;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an embodiment of a mobile phone case, withmodular features, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a conventional mobile phone;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of an electronic cigarette;

FIG. 10 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7,shown in conjunction with the electronic cigarette element;

FIG. 11 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7, withan attached electronic cigarette element;

FIG. 12 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7,shown in conjunction with a removable battery pack;

FIG. 13 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7,shown with an attached battery pack;

FIG. 14 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7, alsoshown with an attached battery pack;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a device for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element, according to a different embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing anelectronic cigarette cartridge;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing asolar panel;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing aremovable rechargeable battery;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing thedevice attached to a mobile phone;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing aremovable electronic cigarette element;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15, also showing acredit card holder;

FIG. 22 is a side view of a device with an attached electronic cigaretteelement, according to a different embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the device of FIG. 22, also showing anattached electronic cigarette element rotating out of the device;

FIG. 24 is a side view of the device of FIG. 22, showing the attachedelectronic cigarette element in a fully deployed position;

FIG. 25 is a front view of the device of FIG. 22, showing the attachedelectronic cigarette element in a fully deployed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.Whenever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawingsand the following description to refer to the same or similar elements.While disclosed embodiments may be described, modifications,adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example,substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elementsillustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may bemodified by substituting reordering or adding additional stages orcomponents to the disclosed methods and devices. Accordingly, thefollowing detailed description does not limit the disclosed embodiments.Instead, the proper scope of the disclosed embodiments is defined by theappended claims.

The disclosed embodiments improve upon the problems with the prior artby providing a device for holding and charging an electronic cigaretteelement and/or a mobile computing device, such as a mobile phone. Thedisclosed embodiments allow for a single, integrated product thatsatisfies both the charging requirements of a rechargeable mobilecomputing device and a rechargeable electronic cigarette in one unit,requiring only one electrical cord, and optionally sharing onerechargeable battery. The disclosed embodiments improve over the priorart by decreasing the amount of storage space required to store both anelectronic cigarette and a mobile computing device, while alsodecreasing the number of electrical cords necessary for two separateelectrical products. Additionally, the disclosed embodiments improveover the prior art by decreasing the amount of purchases that a usermust complete in order to purchase a recharging solution for both amobile computing device and an electronic cigarette. Furthermore, thedisclosed embodiments improve over the prior art by decreasing thelikelihood that a person with a tendency to lose things will lose ormisplace an electronic cigarette and/or a mobile computing device, aswell as a charger for both items.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the device 100 for holding and chargingan electronic cigarette element 110, according to one embodiment. Thedevice 100 comprises a housing 102 having a planar surface (on the rear)deposited with adhesive configured for coupling to a rear of a mobilecomputing device, the housing including a rechargeable battery. In thisdocument, the term mobile computing device refers to a mobile phone,pager, laptop, tablet computer, personal digital assistant, handheldcomputer, netbook, mobile computer, handheld video game system, etc. Thedevice 100 includes a first power port in the housing 102, the firstpower port conductively coupled to the rechargeable battery andconfigured for accepting external power for recharging the rechargeablebattery. The device 100 includes a tubular element 115 coupled to thehousing 102, the tubular element having a cavity that is configured toaccept an electronic cigarette element 110. The device 100 includes acharging terminal 120 located on the housing 102 such that when theelectronic cigarette element 110 is inserted in to the tubular element115, one end of the electronic cigarette element 110 contacts thecharging terminal, and wherein the charging terminal 120 is conductivelycoupled to the rechargeable battery.

FIG. 1 also shows that the housing 102 also includes a removable portionor block 119, located at the bottom of the device 100. Note that thecharging terminal 120 is coupled to a top surface of the removable block119. Also note that different types of electronic cigarette elements canhave different types of charging terminal connections. The removableblock 119 is a portion of the housing 102 that may be removed, so as toaccommodate different types of charging terminal for different types ofelectronic cigarette elements. As users of the device 100 purchasedifferent types of electronic cigarette elements, those users canpurchase different types of removable blocks that accommodate thecharging terminal connections of the electronic cigarette elements.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the device 100 for holding and charging anelectronic cigarette element 110, according to one embodiment. FIG. 2shows that when the electronic cigarette element 110 is inserted intothe tubular element 115, one end of the electronic cigarette element 110contacts the charging terminal, and when the electronic cigaretteelement contacts the charging terminal 120, the rechargeable batteryrecharges a battery of the electronic cigarette element 110.

An electronic cigarette element 110 (more fully described below) isretained within the tubular element 115. The electronic cigaretteelement can comprise components and functions similar to electroniccigarettes that are well known to those skilled in the art. Theelectronic cigarette element includes a heating element (not shown)conductively coupled to a rechargeable battery in the cigarette element.The heating element within the electronic cigarette is adapted forheating a liquid into vapor. Heating elements are well known to thoseskilled in the art and may be a coiled, wire, ribbon or straight heatingelement, comprising materials such as nichrome, nickel, chromium,resistance wire, etched foil, ceramic, composites, metal or anycombination thereof. The electronic cigarette element also includes anextended hollow conduit, tubular element, or mouthpiece at one end ofthe electronic cigarette element and is shaped and sized for allowing auser to inhale vapor through the tubular element. The housing includes atubular element 115 such that the electronic cigarette 110 can extendthrough the body of the tubular element 115. The tubular element 115opening is sized such that it closely fits around the electroniccigarette 110.

In another embodiment, the electronic cigarette element is coupled tothe housing 102 via a magnetic element. A magnetic element may comprisetwo components: 1) a magnet and 2) a ferrous metal component that isattracted to the magnet. In one embodiment, the housing includes amagnet, and the electronic cigarette element may include a ferrous metalcomponent that is attracted to the magnet, such that the electroniccigarette element is mounted or coupled to the housing. In anotherembodiment, the location of the magnet and the ferrous metal componentis reversed. In yet another embodiment, two magnets are used instead.

The various components of the device 100 may be comprised of materialssuch as plastics, rubberized plastic, silicone, water resistantmaterial, resilient material, silicone, rubber, leather, etc. Thevarious components of the device 100 can be separate and be may beaffixed with glue, acrylic glue, fasteners, snaps etc. or the componentsmay be integral with one another.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the device 100 adjacent to a mobilephone 105, according to one embodiment. FIG. 3A shows that the device100 comprises a housing 102 having a planar surface 302 (on the rear)deposited with adhesive configured for coupling to a flat surface, suchas the rear of the mobile phone 105. In one alternative to the adhesive,a magnetic element, described more fully herein, may be used to couplethe device 100 to the mobile phone 105. FIG. 3B is a rear view of thedevice 100 and mobile phone 105, according to one embodiment. FIG. 3Bshows that the device 100 has been coupled to a rear of the mobile phone105. Note that although FIGS. 3A and 3B show the device 100 coupled to amobile phone, the claimed subject matter supports the device 100 coupledto any flat surface, including the flat surface of any mobile computingdevice, any apparatus or any piece of furniture.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another embodiment or arrangement ofthe device 100 adjacent to a mobile phone 105, according to oneembodiment. FIG. 3B shows that the device 100 comprises a housing 102having a planar surface 402 (on the rear) deposited with adhesiveconfigured for coupling to a flat surface, such as the rear of themobile phone 105. In one alternative to the adhesive, a magneticelement, described more fully herein, may be used to couple the device100 to the mobile phone 105. FIG. 4B is a rear view of anotherembodiment or arrangement of the device 100 and mobile phone 105,according to one embodiment. FIG. 4B shows that the device 100 has beencoupled to a rear of the mobile phone 105. Note that although FIGS. 4Aand 4B show the device 100 coupled to a mobile phone, the claimedsubject matter supports the device 100 coupled to any flat surface,including the flat surface of any mobile computing device, any apparatusor any piece of furniture. In one embodiment, the version of the device100 shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B includes the charging terminal 120 attachedto a non-removable element, similar to block 119.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating components of the device 100 forholding and charging an electronic cigarette element, according to anexample embodiment. The components within hashed line 502 are thecomponents included in the device 100. The components within the device100 can be conductively coupled with conductors, such as solder, wire,etc. The components within hashed line 502 are a non-limiting embodimentand other components may also be included and different arrangements ofthe components are contemplated and are consistent with the spirit ofthe claimed subject matter.

External power source 510 is conductively coupled, and provides power,to an external terminal 517 (or power port), which is conductivelycoupled to other components of the device 100, such as rechargeablebattery 508. The terminal 517 is the point at which a conductor fromdevice 100 comes to an end and provides a point of connection toexternal circuits. A terminal may simply be the end of a wire or it maybe fitted with a connector or fastener. The terminal may be a male jack,male connector, a female jack, a female connector, a USB connector. Theterminal may be any plug or connector that is used to transfer dataand/or electrical current. The terminal may also be a magnetic terminal,which may be a magnetically attached power or data connector. Themagnetic terminal is held in place magnetically so that if it is tugged,it will pull out of the connection without damaging the components, thedevice, or the phone. Magnets may be placed within the connector andarranged in opposing polarities for improved coupling strength. Theterminal may also be referred to as a power port, plug, jack, orconnector.

The external power source can be a DC or AC power source or powersupply, such as a rechargeable solar powered battery, battery, linevoltage, etc. The rechargeable battery 508 can be a single battery or aplurality of conductively coupled batteries, wherein each battery cancomprise a variety of configurations or arrangements, such lead-acid,nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion(Li-ion), and lithium ion polymer (Li-ion) polymer or any combinationthereof. The rechargeable battery 508 may be removable in the samemanner in which rechargeable batteries are removable from appliances, asis well known win the art.

External terminal 515 (or power port) is conductively coupled to othercomponents of the device 100, such as rechargeable battery 508. Terminal515 is configured for accepting a cable for connecting the terminal 515to a power port of the mobile computing device or mobile phone 105, andthe terminal 515 is further configured for routing power from therechargeable battery 508 to a battery of the mobile computing device, orfor routing power from the battery of the mobile computing device to therechargeable battery 508.

In one embodiment, the device 100 supports wireless charging, otherwiseknown as inductive charging. In this embodiment, the external powersource 510 wirelessly provides power to the battery 508 using wirelesscharging. In this embodiment, the device 100 would include a wirelesscharging system 513 (well known in the art) that includes an inductioncoil that interacts with an induction coil associated with the externalpower source, so as to execute inductive charging. Wireless chargingsystem 513 may also be used to wirelessly charge the battery of themobile computing device, such as mobile phone 105, or to wirelesslycharge the battery 505 of the element 504.

FIG. 5A also shows electronic cigarette 504, which may comprise allcomponents referred to previously as an electronic cigarette element. Asexplained above, in one alternative, electronic cigarette 504 mayinclude its own removable rechargeable battery 505 apart from battery508. In this alternative, the battery 505 is used to power the heatingelement of the cigarette element 504, especially when the cigaretteelement has been removed from the device 100.

The device 100 also includes a battery 508 conductively coupled to arelay 506, such a solid-state switch. The relay is used toelectromechanically control the flow of power from the battery 508 tothe mobile phone 105 and electronic cigarette 504. The heating elementof the electronic cigarette may be conductively coupled to the battery508 (via relay 506) such that when the system allows power from thebattery 508 to be received by the heating element, the heating elementheats the liquid within the electronic cigarette and turns the liquidinto a vapor. Also, the battery 505 of the electronic cigarette may beconductively coupled to the battery 508 (via relay 506) such that thesystem allows power from the battery 508 to be received by the battery505 so as to recharge battery 505.

Likewise, the mobile phone 105 is conductively coupled to the battery508 (via relay 506) such that when the system allows power from thebattery 508 to be received by the mobile phone 105, the mobile phone 105is powered by the battery 508 or the battery within the mobile phone 105is recharged by the battery 508. (Note that in one embodiment, the phone105 is not conductively coupled to the device 100 via a wire.) In oneembodiment, the processor 550 collects data from the electroniccigarette 504, such as the state or charge level of the battery 505within cigarette 504, and also from the phone 105, such as the state orcharge level of the battery within phone 105. In this embodiment, basedon the data received from cigarette 504 and the phone 105, the processor505 determines to which unit power will be routed from the battery 508.If the battery within phone 105 is depleted or more depleted than thebattery 505 of cigarette 504, then the processor 550 commands relay 506to route power from battery 508 to the battery of the mobile phone 105.If the battery within cigarette 504 is depleted or more depleted thanthe battery of phone 105, then the processor 550 commands relay 506 toroute power from battery 508 to the battery within cigarette 504. Inanother embodiment, the processor 550 commands relay 506 to routepartial power from battery 508 to the battery 505 within cigarette 504and partial power from battery 508 to the battery within phone 105. Inyet another embodiment, the processor 550 commands relay 506 to routepower from the battery of phone 105 to the battery 508, and/or thebattery 505 within cigarette 504. In yet another embodiment, theprocessor 550 commands relay 506 to route power from the battery ofphone 105 and/or the battery 508, directly to the heating element withincigarette 504, bypassing the battery 505.

Note that in one embodiment, the phone 105 is not conductively coupledto the device 100 via a wire. In a related embodiment, the phone 105supports wireless charging of its battery (which would require aninduction coil in the phone 105). Likewise, in a previously discussedembodiment, the device 100 supports wireless charging of its battery 508by an external power source 510. In yet another embodiment, the claimedsubject matter supports wireless charging of the battery 505 by thebattery 508 using inductive coupling. In this embodiment, the electroniccigarette 504 would include an induction coil that interacts with aninduction coil associated with the device 100, so as to executeinductive charging. In a further embodiment, the claimed subject mattersupports wireless charging of the battery of phone 105 by the battery508 using inductive coupling.

A communications bus may connect the components within the housing andprovides communication of data among the components of the circuit. Thebus also provides communication between the device 100 and the mobilephone 105, as well as the cigarette 504. Also included in the circuitwithin device 100 is LEDs/display 512. LEDs lights can be located on thebody of the housing for indicating the amount of power remaining in thebattery and/or electronic cigarette. The LEDs can be different colorsand sizes and various combinations of colors can indicate varying levelsof charge remaining in the battery. A graphical user interface (orsimply user interface) or display may also be used for indicating thelevel of power as well as other parameters and settings associated withthe electronic cigarette. For example, said user interface may be usedto prompt the processor 550 (in response to user input) to route powerbetween the battery of the mobile phone 105, the battery 508, thebattery 505 of the electronic cigarette element and the heating elementof the electronic cigarette element, as defined more fully below.Buttons or switches 514 can be a push button, switch or any small knobor disk that when pressed activates an electric circuit and is connectedto the bus and can be used to open or close the electrical circuit whenthe button, switch or knob is depressed. The button, switch or knob canbe used for powering on and off the device 100 as well as for adjustingthe settings and parameters of the device 100 and electronic cigarette504, as well as power routing functions, as defined more fully herein.The button, switch or knob can be used to activate and deactivate theprocessor 550 from routing power to and from the batteries 505, 508 andthe battery of the mobile 105 between each other, as described above.

Processor 550 is used to control, through the communications bus,functions including the opening and closing of the relay switch to routethe power from the rechargeable battery to the mobile phone power portand to the battery 505 or heating element of the electronic cigaretteelement and to control the LEDs and/or graphical user interface display.Processor 550 could be any type of processor such as a microcontroller,a programmable logic controller or an ASIC (Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit).

Alternative to the use of the buttons, switches or knobs described above(see item 514), the user may control functions of the device 100, suchas power routing functions, using a mobile application executing on amobile computing device. The device 100 may include a radio frequencycommunication chip 552 that is able to communicate via radio frequencywith a mobile computing device. A Bluetooth chip is one example of aradio frequency communication chip 552. The user may control powerrouting functions of the device 100 by interacting with widgets on atouch display screen (such as sliders, pull down menus, buttons, andtext fields) of a mobile application executing on a mobile computingdevice. This alternative reduces or eliminates the necessity for buttonsor switches 514 on the device 100. In addition to power routingfunctions, the mobile application may also provide status data, such asthe amount of battery power left on the device 100 or the electroniccigarette element 504, how long it would take to recharge both thebattery of the device 100 or the electronic cigarette element 504, howmany puffs or drags were taken from the electronic cigarette element504, and when the e-liquid pod of the cigarette 504 is almost empty. Themobile application may also be linked to a website to reorder e-liquidpods for the cigarette 504. The mobile application may also allow theuser to control the temperature of the electronic cigarette element 504.

FIG. 5B is a block diagram illustrating components of the electroniccigarette 504, according to an example embodiment, which may compriseall components referred to previously as electronic cigarette element.As explained above, in one alternative, electronic cigarette 504 mayinclude its own removable rechargeable battery 505. In this alternative,the battery 505 is used to power the heating element of the cigaretteelement, especially when the cigarette element has been removed from thedevice 100. In one embodiment, the electronic cigarette 504 wouldinclude a wireless charging system 573 (well known in the art) thatincludes an induction coil that interacts with an induction coilassociated with an external power source (or wireless charging system513 on the device 100), so as to execute inductive charging. The heatingelement 521 of the electronic cigarette may be conductively coupled tothe battery 505 such that when the system allows power from the batteryto be received by the heating element, the heating element heats theliquid within the electronic cigarette and turns the liquid into avapor. The tubular element 523 of the electronic cigarette is anelongated hollow element through which the user sucks vapor or smokewhile using the electronic cigarette element.

Electronic cigarette 504 may external terminal 519, which isconductively coupled to other components of the cigarette 504, such asrechargeable battery 505. The terminal 519 is the point at which aconductor from cigarette 504 comes to an end and provides a point ofconnection to external circuits. A terminal may simply be the end of awire or it may be fitted with a connector or fastener. The terminal mayalso be a magnetic terminal.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of a mobile phonecase 900, with modular features, and FIG. 8 is an illustration of aconventional mobile phone. FIG. 7 shows that the mobile phone case 900is about to be coupled to the mobile phone 700 via a friction fit.

The mobile phone case 900 comprises a protective case element designedfor coupling or covering the mobile phone 700. The purpose of theprotective case element is to protect the phone from damage due to fallsor mishandling of the mobile phone. The protective case element can besized and designed to fully encase the cellular phone or said caseelement may be adapted to couple with the phone via a friction fit. Theprotective case element is designed for coupling to the mobile phone viaa friction fit. The protective case element comprises a substantiallyplanar rectangular shaped backing. Along the perimeter of therectangular shaped backing is a wall element. The wall element has asubstantially planar body and is attached along the perimeter of thebacking and extends perpendicularly and distally from the surface of therectangular shaped backing. The wall element has a top end which has acatching feature thereon. The catching feature forms a ridge thatextends substantially perpendicularly inboard from the inner surface ofthe top end of the wall element. The dimension between the catchingfeatures on the opposing wall elements is less than the dimensionbetween the opposing wall elements. The material of the protective caseis formed from a resilient material, such that forces acting outward maycause the catching features to be pushed outward, and after such forcesare removed, the catching features will return back to its originalshape.

Such resilient properties of the catching features allow a mobile phoneto be inserted into the protective case element and retained by thecatching features once in the protective case element. A mobile phone700 can be received by and held in place in the protective case elementvia a friction fit. When a mobile or cellular phone is being positionedinto the protective case element such that the back of a cellular phoneabuts the backing, outward forces act on the resilient material of theinboard facing catching feature. This causes the dimension of the spacebetween catching features on the opposing wall elements to increase toallow the mobile phone to pass into the protective case element. Oncethe mobile phone 700 is positioned in the protective case element, andoutward forces acting on the catching feature of the wall section areremoved, this causes the resilient material of the catching features toreturn to its original position and shape. After the material of thecatching feature returns to its original shape, the catching featurefacilitates maintaining the cellular phone within the protective caseelement. The protective case element is sized such that the surfaces ofthe cell phone fits snug with the inside surfaces of the protective caseelement when the phone is inside the protective case element. Theprotective case element may have a plurality of openings or apertures.These openings or apertures are positioned and correspond to the variouscomponents of the mobile phone, such as a camera lens, power ports, usercontrols, etc. and allow proper operation of the phone when inside theprotective case element.

In one embodiment, the mobile phone case 900 may include an externalterminal 517 (or power port), to which an external power source may beconductively coupled. In another embodiment, the mobile phone case 900may include an external terminal 515 (or power port) configured forconnecting to a power port of a mobile computing device or mobile phone,and the terminal 515 is further configured for routing power to abattery of the mobile computing device, or for routing power from thebattery of the mobile computing device.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of an electronic cigarette 1000 and FIG. 10 isanother illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7, shown inconjunction with the electronic cigarette element. FIG. 10 shows thatthe mobile phone case 900 has been coupled to the mobile phone 700 via afriction fit. The mobile phone case 900 may be coupled with anelectronic cigarette element 1000 that may be magnetically attached tothe mobile phone case 900 via a magnetic element. In FIG. 9, theelectronic cigarette element 1000 is an independent and separate elementwith a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mobilephone case 900.

FIG. 11 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7, withan attached electronic cigarette element. FIG. 11 shows that the mobilephone case 900 has been coupled with the electronic cigarette element1000 via a magnetic element. In FIG. 11, the electronic cigaretteelement 1000 is removably coupled to the mobile phone case 900 such thatthe longitudinal axis of the cigarette element is parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the mobile phone case 900. In one embodiment, themobile phone case 900 is removably coupled with the electronic cigaretteelement 1000 via a magnetic element that allows the cigarette element tobe decoupled from the mobile phone case using regular human fingerstrength or grip strength.

FIG. 12 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7,shown in conjunction with a removable battery pack. FIG. 12 shows that abattery pack 1200 is about to be removably coupled to the mobile phonecase 900 via a magnetic element. FIG. 12 also shows a channel or gutter1202 located in the battery pack 1200, which is shaped and configured toallow for the electronic cigarette element 1000 to be securely insertedinto the channel or gutter 1202.

In one embodiment, the battery pack 1200 may include an externalterminal 517 (or power port), to which an external power source may beconductively coupled, so as to recharge the batter pack. In anotherembodiment, the battery pack 1200 may include an external terminal 515(or power port) configured for connecting to a power port of the mobilephone 700, and the terminal 515 is further configured for routing powerfrom the battery pack 1200 to a battery of the mobile phone 700, or forrouting power from the battery of the mobile phone to the battery pack1200.

FIG. 13 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 7,shown with an attached battery pack. FIG. 13 shows that the battery pack1200 has been coupled to the mobile phone case 900 via a magneticelement. In FIG. 13, the battery pack 1200 is an independent andseparate element with a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the mobile phone case 900. Note in FIG. 13 that the electroniccigarette element 1000 has been securely inserted into the channel orgutter 1202. The battery pack 1200 may provide battery power to thecigarette element 1000 via a terminal connection or wirelessly through awireless charging system. The battery pack 1200 may also provide batterypower to the mobile phone 700 via a terminal connection or wirelesslythrough a wireless charging system. In one embodiment, the battery pack1200 is not removable but is rather an integrated, non-removable portionof the mobile phone case 900.

FIG. 14 is another illustration of the mobile phone case of FIG. 9, alsoshown with an attached battery pack. FIG. 14 shows that the battery pack1200 has been coupled to the mobile phone case 900 and that theelectronic cigarette element 1000 has been entirely removed from thechannel or gutter 1202 in the battery pack 1200. This arrangement allowsthe user to more easily utilize the electronic cigarette element 1000for inhaling vapor. In one embodiment, the battery pack 1200 is notremovable but is rather an integrated, non-removable portion of themobile phone case 900, which includes components of the device 100 forholding and charging an electronic cigarette element. The componentswithin hashed line 502 are the components included in the device 100.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a device 1500 for holding and chargingan electronic cigarette element, according to a different embodiment.The device 1500 may have the same features and components as the device100, as shown and described above. The device 1500 is shown toadditionally include a housing (an exterior case or enclosure used toprotect the interior components of the device 1500) and a receptacle1503 in the top surface of the housing, the receptacle being configured(i.e., shaped and sized) to accept and securely hold an electroniccigarette element. The device 1500 is further shown to additionallyinclude a receptacle 1512 in the top surface of the housing, thereceptacle being configured (i.e., shaped and sized) to accept andsecurely hold a disposable cartridge 1502 for an electronic cigaretteelement. The device 1500 is further shown to additionally include a flatrear surface 1501 on the external surface of the housing.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the device 1500 of FIG. 15, alsoshowing an electronic cigarette cartridge 1502. FIG. 16 shows that theelectronic cigarette cartridge 1502 has been removed from the receptacle1512 in the top surface of the housing.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the device 1500 of FIG. 15, alsoshowing a solar panel 1505. A solar panel is a photo-voltaic (PV)module, which is an assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in aframework that uses light (usually sunlight) as a source of energy andgenerates direct current electricity for electrical equipment, or, inthis case, device 1500. Device 1500 must also include a charging systemthat accepts the current from the solar panel 1505, optionally processesthe current, and provides said current for recharging of therechargeable battery.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the device 1500 of FIG. 15, alsoshowing a removable rechargeable battery 1506, which may be anycommercially available rechargeable battery, which is configured (i.e.,shaped and sized) to fit securely in a receptacle in the housing of thedevice 1500. Removable rechargeable battery 1506 may be removed from thereceptacle in the device 1500 for recharging, or for replacement with anew working battery.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the device 1500 of FIG. 15, alsoshowing the device attached to a mobile phone 1516. FIG. 19 shows thatthe rear surface 1501 of the device 1500 has been attached to the rearsurface 1507 of the phone 1516, using a magnet, an adhesive, or otherfastener.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the device of 1500 FIG. 15, alsoshowing a removable electronic cigarette element 1508 with the cartridge1502 attached thereto. FIG. 20 shows that the receptacle 1503 in the topsurface of the housing is configured (i.e., shaped and sized) to acceptand securely hold the electronic cigarette element 1508. The electroniccigarette element 1508 may have the same features and components as thedevice 1000, as shown and described above.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the device 1500 of FIG. 15, alsoshowing a credit card holder 1518. The holder 1516 may include a fabric,rubber sheath or other material that is extended form the left side ofthe device 1500 to the right side of the device. There is a divot in theholder 1516 at the top of the element. A credit card, license,identification, or other flat element can fit securely between theholder 1516 and the device 1500.

FIG. 22 is a side view of a device 2204 with an attached electroniccigarette element, according to a different embodiment. The device 2204is further shown to additionally include a flat rear surface 2205 forattaching to the rear surface 1507 of the phone 1516, using a magnet, anadhesive, or other fastener. The device 2204 may have the same featuresand components as the devices 100, 1500, as shown and described above.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the device of FIG. 22, also showing anattached electronic cigarette element 2206 rotating out of the devicevia a rotatable hinge 2207. The electronic cigarette element 2206 mayhave the same features and components as the device 1000, 1508, as shownand described above.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the device of FIG. 22, showing the attachedelectronic cigarette element 2206 in a fully deployed position. Theelectronic cigarette element 2206 may include a sensor that detects whenthe attached electronic cigarette element 2206 is in a fully deployedposition. When said position is sensed, the device 2204 may enable theelectronic cigarette element 2206 for use (i.e., smoking or vaping) bythe user. The electronic cigarette element 2206 may further include asensor that detects when the attached electronic cigarette element 2206is not in a fully deployed position. When said position is sensed, thedevice 2204 may disable the electronic cigarette element 2206 for use(i.e., smoking or vaping) by the user. FIG. 25 is a front view of thedevice of FIG. 22, showing the attached electronic cigarette element2206 in a fully deployed position.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a system including an example computingdevice or computer/processors 600. Consistent with the embodimentsdescribed herein, the aforementioned actions performed bycomputer/processor 550 may be implemented in a computing device, such asthe computing device 600 of FIG. 6. Any suitable combination ofhardware, software, or firmware may be used to implement the computingdevice 600. The aforementioned system, device, and processors areexamples and other systems, devices, and processors may comprise theaforementioned computing device. Furthermore, computing device 600 maycomprise an operating environment for performing the processingfunctions described as described above. Additionally, thecomputer/processor 550 may operate in other systems and are not limitedto computing device 600.

With reference to FIG. 6, a system consistent with an embodiment hereinmay include a plurality of computing devices, such as computing device600. In a basic configuration, computing device 600 may include at leastone processing unit 602 and a system memory 604. Depending on theconfiguration and type of computing device, system memory 604 maycomprise, but is not limited to, volatile (e.g. random access memory(RAM)), non-volatile (e.g. read-only memory (ROM)), flash memory, or anycombination or memory. System memory 604 may include operating system605, and one or more programming modules 606. Operating system 605, forexample, may be suitable for controlling computing device 600'soperation. In one embodiment, programming modules 606 may include, forexample, a program module 607 for executing the actions ofcomputer/processor 550, for example. Furthermore, embodiments herein maybe practiced in conjunction with a graphics library, other operatingsystems, or any other application program and is not limited to anyparticular application or system. This basic configuration isillustrated in FIG. 6 by those components within a dashed line 620.

Computing device 600 may have additional features or functionality. Forexample, computing device 600 may also include additional data storagedevices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magneticdisks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated inFIG. 6 by a removable storage 609 and a non-removable storage 610.Computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable,and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology forstorage of information, such as computer readable instructions, datastructures, program modules, or other data. System memory 604, removablestorage 609, and non-removable storage 610 are all computer storagemedia examples (i.e. memory storage.) Computer storage media mayinclude, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasableread-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology,CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magneticcassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to storeinformation and which can be accessed by computing device 600. Any suchcomputer storage media may be part of device 600. Computing device 600may also have input device(s) 612 such as a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, asound input device, a camera, a touch input device, etc. Outputdevice(s) 614 such as a display, speakers, a printer, etc. may also beincluded. The aforementioned devices are only examples, and otherdevices may be added or substituted.

Computing device 600 may also contain a communication connection 616that may allow device 600 to communicate with other computing devices618, such as over a network in a distributed computing environment, forexample, an intranet or the Internet. Communication connection 616 isone example of communication media. Communication media may typically beembodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, programmodules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrierwave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information deliverymedia. The term “modulated data signal” may describe a signal that hasone or more characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encodeinformation in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation,communication media may include wired media such as a wired network ordirect-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radiofrequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. The term computerreadable media as used herein may include both computer storage mediaand communication media.

As stated above, a number of program modules and data files may bestored in system memory 604, including operating system 605. Whileexecuting on processing unit 602, programming modules 606 (e.g. programmodule 607) may perform processes including, for example, one or more ofthe stages of the processes as described above. The aforementionedprocesses are examples, and processing unit 602 may perform otherprocesses. Other programming modules that may be used in accordance withembodiments herein may include electronic mail and contactsapplications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications,database applications, slide presentation applications, drawing orcomputer-aided application programs, etc.

Generally, consistent with embodiments herein, program modules mayinclude routines, programs, components, data structures, and other typesof structures that may perform particular tasks or that may implementparticular abstract data types. Moreover, embodiments herein may bepracticed with other computer system configurations, including hand-helddevices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmableconsumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like.Embodiments herein may also be practiced in distributed computingenvironments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices thatare linked through a communications network. In a distributed computingenvironment, program modules may be located in both local and remotememory storage devices.

Furthermore, embodiments herein may be practiced in an electricalcircuit comprising discrete electronic elements, packaged or integratedelectronic chips containing logic gates, a circuit utilizing amicroprocessor, or on a single chip (such as a System on Chip)containing electronic elements or microprocessors. Embodiments hereinmay also be practiced using other technologies capable of performinglogical operations such as, for example, AND, OR, and NOT, including butnot limited to mechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies.In addition, embodiments herein may be practiced within ageneral-purpose computer or in any other circuits or systems.

Embodiments herein, for example, are described above with reference toblock diagrams and/or operational illustrations of methods, systems, andcomputer program products according to embodiments herein. Thefunctions/acts noted in the blocks may occur out of the order as shownin any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession may infact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimesbe executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/actsinvolved.

While certain embodiments herein have been described, other embodimentsmay exist. Furthermore, although embodiments herein have been describedas being associated with data stored in memory and other storagemediums, data can also be stored on or read from other types ofcomputer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like harddisks, floppy disks, or a CD-ROM, or other forms of RAM or ROM. Further,the disclosed methods' stages may be modified in any manner, includingby reordering stages and/or inserting or deleting stages, withoutdeparting from the claimed embodiments.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above.Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed asexample forms of implementing the claims.

We claim:
 1. A device comprising: a housing configured for coupling to arear of a mobile computing device, the housing including a rechargeablebattery; a first power port in the housing, the first power portconductively coupled to the rechargeable battery and configured foraccepting external power for recharging the rechargeable battery; afirst receptacle in the housing, wherein the first receptacle isconfigured to accept an electronic cigarette element; a chargingterminal located in the first receptacle such that when the electroniccigarette element is inserted into the first receptacle, one end of theelectronic cigarette element contacts the charging terminal, and whereinthe charging terminal is conductively coupled to the rechargeablebattery; wherein when the electronic cigarette element contacts thecharging terminal, the rechargeable battery recharges a battery of theelectronic cigarette element; and a second receptacle in the housing,wherein the second receptacle is configured to accept a cartridge forthe electronic cigarette element.
 2. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a flat surface on a rear of the housing and an adhesive onsaid flat surface for coupling to the rear of the mobile computingdevice.
 3. The device of claim 2, further comprising a wireless chargingsystem embedded in the housing, wherein when the housing is placed inproximity to the mobile computing device, the wireless charging systemcharges a battery of the mobile computing device.
 4. The device of claim3, wherein the wireless charging system is an inductive charging system.5. The device of claim 4, wherein the charging terminal is at least onemale protrusion that is inserted into a détente in the electriccigarette element.
 6. The device of claim 5, further comprising aphotovoltaic cell on an external surface of the housing, thephotovoltaic cell configured to produce an electrical current that isused to recharge the rechargeable battery.
 7. The device of claim 6,further comprising a credit card holder on an external surface of thehousing, the credit card holder configured for holding at least onecredit card.
 8. A device comprising: a housing configured for couplingto a rear of a mobile computing device, the housing including aremovable rechargeable battery located in a first receptacle in thehousing; a first power port in the housing, the first power portconductively coupled to the rechargeable battery and configured foraccepting external power for recharging the rechargeable battery; asecond receptacle in the housing, wherein the second receptacle isconfigured to accept an electronic cigarette element; a chargingterminal located in the second receptacle such that when the electroniccigarette element is inserted into the second receptacle, one end of theelectronic cigarette element contacts the charging terminal, and whereinthe charging terminal is conductively coupled to the rechargeablebattery; wherein when the electronic cigarette element contacts thecharging terminal, the rechargeable battery recharges a battery of theelectronic cigarette element; and a third receptacle in the housing,wherein the third receptacle is configured to accept a cartridge for theelectronic cigarette element.
 9. The device of claim 8, furthercomprising a flat surface on a rear of the housing and an adhesive onsaid flat surface for coupling to the rear of the mobile computingdevice.
 10. The device of claim 9, further comprising a wirelesscharging system embedded in the housing, wherein when the housing isplaced in proximity to the mobile computing device, the wirelesscharging system charges a battery of the mobile computing device. 11.The device of claim 10, wherein the wireless charging system is aninductive charging system.
 12. The device of claim 11, wherein thecharging terminal is at least one male protrusion that is inserted intoa détente in the electric cigarette element.
 13. The device of claim 12,further comprising a photovoltaic cell on an external surface of thehousing, the photovoltaic cell configured to produce an electricalcurrent that is used to recharge the rechargeable battery.
 14. Thedevice of claim 13, further comprising a credit card holder on anexternal surface of the housing, the credit card holder configured forholding at least one credit card.
 15. A device comprising: a housingincluding a removable rechargeable battery located in a first receptaclein the housing; a flat surface on a rear of the housing and an adhesiveon said flat surface for coupling to a rear of a mobile computingdevice; a first power port in the housing, the first power portconductively coupled to the rechargeable battery and configured foraccepting external power for recharging the rechargeable battery; asecond receptacle in the housing, wherein the second receptacle isconfigured to accept an electronic cigarette element; a chargingterminal located in the second receptacle such that when the electroniccigarette element is inserted into the second receptacle, one end of theelectronic cigarette element contacts the charging terminal, and whereinthe charging terminal is conductively coupled to the rechargeablebattery; wherein when the electronic cigarette element contacts thecharging terminal, the rechargeable battery recharges a battery of theelectronic cigarette element; and a third receptacle in the housing,wherein the third receptacle is configured to accept a cartridge for theelectronic cigarette element.
 16. The device of claim 15, furthercomprising a wireless charging system embedded in the housing, whereinwhen the housing is placed in proximity to the mobile computing device,the wireless charging system charges a battery of the mobile computingdevice.
 17. The device of claim 16, wherein the wireless charging systemis an inductive charging system.
 18. The device of claim 17, wherein thecharging terminal is at least one male protrusion that is inserted intoa détente in the electric cigarette element.
 19. The device of claim 18,further comprising a photovoltaic cell on an external surface of thehousing, the photovoltaic cell configured to produce an electricalcurrent that is used to recharge the rechargeable battery.